North Huntingdon sets budget for 250th anniversary events

North Huntingdon anticipates spending about $148,000 for the township’s celebration of its 250th anniversary, which begins with a time capsule reveal and concludes with two days of festivities in mid-September.

While the 2023 budget did not include money specifically for the semiquincentennial celebration, township Manager Harry Faulk said that money will be transferred into an account for the events.

The township anticipates generating some revenue from sponsorships, said Daniel Miller, North Huntingdon’s parks and recreation director, in a report to the commissioners.

The recreation board is proposing several marketing activities to keep the celebration relevant throughout the year, Miller said.

The year of events will kick off April 6 with a “birthday party” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Town House, Miller said, and will include digging up a time capsule buried in front.

State, county and local officials will be invited, along with the public, business community and the Norwin School District. That event, with media and promotions, is expected to cost about $5,450, including refreshments and entertainment.

The two-day festival in mid-September, at a location to be announced, is projected to cost between $93,000 and $118,000.

The birthday bash will feature eight bands estimated to cost $20,000; $10,000 worth of children’s activities such as clowns, a magician, a trackless train and pony rides; and several inflatables that will cost about $8,000.

A fireworks display and drone show will cost between $15,000 and $40,000, Miller estimated.

North Huntingdon formulated the budget for the celebration after members of township’s recreation board said they were unable to plan the events without having an idea of how much money was available.